Blinds for duck hunting are an essential asset to any hunt. They are designed to conceal the hunter from the ducks, which have very good eye sight. Many times when a hunter thinks he is being perfectly still, the slightest movement can alert a duck to the hunter's presence. The blinds are generally camouflage colored, though some blinds use the natural surroundings, such as grasses and vegetation, to conceal movement.



The first decision to be made when choosing a blind is whether to go temporary or permanent. If you're hunting on public land, permanent blinds are usually prohibited. However, if you're hunting on your own land, this may be a good option. With a little labor, these blinds can become amazingly well concealed structures.

Permanent blinds also tend to be the most comfortable, with seats, wood floors, and corner posts to support the blind. Chicken wire covered with the natural vegetation of the area can be used to conceal the hunter. One great disadvantage to the permanent blind is the lack of mobility. Ducks often change position when they're on the water, or if the wind changes to the hunter's disadvantage, your blind cannot move to accommodate the changes.

For most hunters, the temporary blind is often the best choice. Because it is built to be mobile, it is often easy to set up and take down. They usually store compactly, and can be set up both on land, or over a boat. They also can effectively conceal the hunter, a dog, or a vehicle, depending on the hunter's situation. A popular type of portable blind consists of camouflage mesh that drapes over poles. There are also some on the market that are collapsible and have a window and a seat, while still concealing the hunter completely.

There are also limitless options for duck blinds on the water. The collapsible blind can be used over your boat just as effectively as it can be used on land. A giant magnum goose decoy is also a very effective way for concealing a hunter in the water; there are viewing slots out the front of the decoy, and the hunter is concealed amongst his other decoys.

Fiberglass one-man coffin blinds are very low profile, but can be uncomfortable as the hunter must lean back against a backrest. Another option for hunters with boats is a boathouse blind. Similar to a garage for your boat, posts are driven into the ground, and an opening in the front allows the boat to slip in and out easily to retrieve down ducks.

For duck hunters, the blind options are endless. Whether going to your local sporting goods store and purchasing a collapsible blind, or combining a little creativity with some sweat, there are options for every hunter out there.